SCALABLE SOLUTIONS AND REAL WORLD IMPLENTATION TO HEADLINE AGENDA FOR THIRD ANNUAL FINTECH SUMMIT IN DUBAI

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Naseba summit to bring together fintech and BFSI thought leaders as 82% of financial services companies look to grow fintech partnerships in next 3-5 years Dubai, 25 September 2018: The movers and shapers of the financial technology (fintech) world will return to Dubai on 30th October 2018 for the third annual Fintech Summit, organised by leading regional deal facilitation company Naseba. With the region’s financial landscape rapidly evolving as disruptive technologies and the drive towards digitisation reshape business practices, activities and economies, this year’s event will once again provide a solid platform – and timely update – for banking, financial services and insurance (BFSI) decision makers looking to remain agile amid a shifting topography. Held under the banner theme of Enterprise Grade. Real World. Now, an influential line-up of over 20 high profile speakers will lead an intensive schedule of presentations, panel discussions, tech talks and round table discussions, alongside more than 15 solutions providers, with a supporting calendar of pre-scheduled business meetings and deal facilitation opportunities. “Fintech innovation is gaining incredible momentum in the region, with governments and private sector companies eager to gain global competitive advantage and support sustainable economic development goals through next generation technology adoption. The UAE, and Dubai in particular, is fast-tracking investment and implementation in line with the National Innovation Strategy as set out by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to make the UAE a global hub for innovation, and today’s BFSI C-suite need to be ahead of the curve when it comes to implementation.” said Sandeep Chauhan, EVP, Global Head, Operations and Technology, Mashreq Bank. Digital disruption is unavoidable. It’s happening because multiple technologies are rapidly evolving all the time. While this very human approach to business may seem at odds with Mashreq’s digital backbone, it does in fact drive every choice the business makes – even the creation of what Chouhan calls his ‘Digital Workforce’ The global banking industry will spend US$519 billion on technology this year, an increase of 4.1% on 2017 spend, with legacy system updates and next-generation back office solutions leading investment. Recent research by Gartner put a figure of US$155 billion on MENA region IT spending in 2018, with banking and securities firms leading spending growth in the last 12 months (+3.6%), followed by insurance (+2.9%); and making significant investment into analytics, blockchain, artificial intelligence and software applications. A 2015 Ernst & Young survey found that banks were primed to invest anywhere from US$5-20 million for digital initiatives and the BFSI sector in the Middle East is turning its attention to digital transformation, with Emirates NBD alone committing Dhs1 billion (US$272.3 million) over the next three years. In its Redrawing the lines: FinTech’s growing influence on Financial Services report, PwC found that 82% of financial services companies plan to increase fintech partnerships in the coming three to five years, with an expectation of 20% ROI on their innovation projects. An AT Kearney report also noted that consumer e-commerce activity is set to quadruple in the region by 2020 with performance marketing technology company Criteo reporting that 43% of e-commerce transactions in the MENA region are made through mobile devices. Commenting on the regional landscape, Christopher Fernandez, CEO and Co-Founder of Block Gemini said that “blockchain is going to play a key role in the success of financial companies in the near future. The world banking sector will save up to $20 billion by 2022 through implementing blockchain. The GCC banks have already started using blockchain in remittance, trade finance, Islamic banking, and soon we are going to see a lot of applications and services on blockchain. We are very excited that the agenda issues facing BFSI decision makers are fast reaching a decision crunch point, and the summit is a proven catalyst in supporting action and facilitating effective partnerships and deals’ Taking place on board the Queen Elizabeth 2 at Port Rashid, the summit will open with a keynote presentation by Nasir Zubairi, CEO, The Luxembourg House of Financial Technology, examining artificial intelligence applications in the real world and the impact on banking. This will set the scene for a packed schedule of hot topics delving deeper into issues surrounding blockchain implementation, cybersecurity and data storage, next generation retail banking and customer-centric digitisation, along with case studies including Singapore’s transformation into a global financial hub and the importance of driving innovation. Speakers at the 2018 event include Sopnendu Mohanty, Chief Fintech Officer, Monetary Authority of Singapore; Alice Hlidkova, CEO, New Economies Pvt Ltd; Bryan Stirewalt, Managing Director, Supervision, Dubai Financial Services Authority; Nick Lee, Authorisation Director, BFSI, Abu Dhabi Global Markets; Abdul Malik Al Sheikh, Senior Advisor, Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority; Max Liu, Co-Founder & CEO, EMQ. To learn more about the Fintech Summit please contact Amir Abdin – amirabdin@naseba.com About Naseba Naseba creates growth opportunities, connecting people, partners and ideas. Focused on deal facilitation, it helps clients: raise capital, close sales, enter new markets, secure partners and educate workforces. Naseba’s goal is to create opportunity and add economic value at every stage of its client’s journey. It does this through three key areas: investor services, commercial services and leadership services. Since 2002, Naseba has facilitated more than a billion dollars’ worth of deals and has connected over 100,000 global executives through more than 1,000 proprietary business platforms in liquid growth markets. Naseba is a signatory of the Women’s Empowerment Principles – Equality Means Business, produced and disseminated by the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women) and the United Nations Global Compact. For media contact: Hina Bakht Managing Director EVOPS Marketing & PR Mob: 00971 50 6975146 Tel: 00971 4 566 7355 Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com www.evops-pr.com

A Polynesian heaven inside Dubai Parks and Resorts

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Hey readers ! I know its been a a while since I’ve done a travel post but thats only because my last fun destination was London in 2016 and that changed my life forever as most of you know.I met an amazing man that led me to do more trips to London the next 2 years and eventually we got married!! True Story! You’ll find loads of  London info and inspo on my instagram so do go check out my insta posts and highlights. This time around I was back in Dubai after 3 long months (the longest I’ve stayed away from my home city) because I was semi-locating to London and everyday is a interesting episode of culture shocks and reverse culture shocks. One thing I realised when I came back to Dubai this summer was how much  we take for granted the number of amazing staycation options Dubai has to offer (All of UAE for that matter)!! Something thats almost non-existent in the UK. I thought of trying out a new one this time and realised I had never been to any part of Parks & Resorts. So my sister and I packed our bags and decided to head to the Lapita resort. Located inside Dubai Parks and Resorts this Polynesian haven has got absolutely everything you’re looking for, be it a holiday with family or just a weekend staycation with your partner or a bunch of friends. The resort offers: Rooms – Standard rooms, Deluxe rooms,  suites and a deluxe 3 bedroom family villa. Two pools A LAZY RIVER !!!  (Score!!!! Although it was under maintenance when we visited ): ) A kids play club 24 hours gym !!! (Assures me I’m not crazy to have always desired this) 5 F&B outlets, most of which are licensed Walking distance to Legoland, Motion gate and other theme parks

Lapita Resort Dubai. Wearing: All things Mochi from Namshi

Upon check-in our buggy took us to our lovely Polynese style pool facing deluxe room where we unwound and headed straight for the pool ( good timing: G&T on Happy Hour at the pool bar) The resort has a fresh serene island vibe and we soon forgot we were in Dubai. Had we not been under the scorching July sun, we would have definitely gone to one of the theme parks.

After pool comes food….Duh!! so we quickly changed and headed to Hikina- which is a pan asian hot pot and dumpling house, where the lovely team hosted us for a family style Asian dinner. The restaurant is massive and quite airy, with a huge dining capacity, an open kitchen which we all know we love and a cute little bar with some high tables and chais to enjoy a drink and build appetite.

We ate our way through some delicious authentic dumplings, sticks and buns – all of it being bang on flavour and good portion size. Our highlight was of course making and eating the Hot-Pot, something we’ve never done before. So…….you walk your way through the ingredients aisle, filling your basket with veggies of your choice, followed by filling it up with noodles of your choice….followed by ending at the sauce station where you mix your own sauce!! how fun ! You take all of this to your table, while the broth and choice of meat is served at the table. Our server helped us start the inbuilt induction on our table ( which is at every table by the way) and took us through our private little HotPot masterclass. The end result was an aromatic steaming hot-pot full of flavour and ingredients, that I’m sure you’ll eat bowls and bowls of……we totally did. Watch the complete video here. An important feedback we had for the team was that the extensive stock of ingredients and the massive kitchen sure allowed for lots more variety on the menu than they currently had, lets hope they incorporate this soon so we can go back to binge on some new dishes. Stuffed to the brim, we had to take a walk ….whilst at it, we realised how beautifully calm and serene the resort felt at night. Cut to – Waking up to breakfast …which deffo did not disappoint. The spread at Kalea was massive and cusines multiple. I swear I was there for the entire duration just lapping away. Crazy selection of breads, danish, smoothies, an omelet live station, waffle station with ….wait for it….a Nutella Dispenser!! OMG I died. Apart from that they served , Indian, Asian, Continental and Middle Eastern cuisines with a brilliant selection of dishes –  trust me it was to die for.

The team were kind enough to give us a late check out that allowed us to take a nap after breakfast….Lollzz… and laze some more in the pool before we headed back to Dubai. – See I told you it felt like we were elsewhere. Do check out the Lapita highlight circle on my instagram to see detailed stories and fun boomies and do check out this video on our little staycation at the resort. Hope you’d book this for your next vaca or staca in Dubai and hope you enjoy it…xx

Lapita – Dubai Parks and Resorts, Autograph Collection. Dubai, UAE. Tel: +9714 8109999 Toll Free: +971 800 62774688

SWISS-BELHOTEL INTERNATIONAL APPOINTS HOTEL MANAGER FOR SWISS-BELRESIDENCES JUFFAIR

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Bahrain – Swiss-Belhotel International has announced the appointment of Teodor Ardeleanu as the Hotel Manager for Swiss-Belresidences Juffair in Bahrain that is gearing up for a soft opening soon. Teodor brings over 18 years of diverse experience in the hospitality industry and has been widely recognized for his leadership skills and business acumen. Teodor began his career in Europe at the JW Marriott Bucharest in 2000 and swiftly rose in position. He moved to the Middle East in 2006 and continued his journey with the Marriott group working with many great hotels in the region. Making the announcement, Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President, Operations and Development for the Middle East, Africa and India, Swiss-Belhotel International, stated: “We are delighted to welcome Teodor to our team. His extensive experience combined with his proven success in Bahrain will be an asset for us. We are confident with his exceptional expertise, Teodor will deliver our brand’s top service standards.” Expressing his delight Teodor said, “I feel truly privileged to join Swiss-Belhotel International at this exciting time and very grateful to the group for giving me this fabulous opportunity. I look forward to working closely with the team as we prepare for the opening of Swiss-Belresidences Juffair.” Prior to his new position, Teodor was the General Manager of One Bahrain Hospitality WLL as well as the Advisor to Chairman for ITICO Group of Companies and Owner Representative for Marriott Properties in Bahrain. Since 2016 he was the Management & Training Consultant for Ki Train Consultancy SPC. Teodor holds a Bachelor’s degree from University of Tourism and Hospitality. Centrally located in Juffair – a popular hub for dining and shopping venues – Swiss-Belresidences Juffair is an upper midscale hotel-apartment complex boasting 129 spacious (1, 2 and 3-bedroom apartments and penthouse) with superb facilities. The beautiful hotel features an array of leisure and entertainment facilities for families ranging from a business lounge, fabulous spa and health club to an outdoor swimming pool, cinema, games room for all ages and playground. For further information visit http://www.swiss-belhotel.com For media contact: Hina Bakht Managing Director EVOPS Marketing & PR Mob: 00971 50 6975146 Tel: 00971 4 566 7355 Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com www.evops-pr.com About Swiss-Belhotel International Swiss-Belhotel International currently manages a portfolio of more than 150* hotels, resorts and projects located in Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Australia, New Zealand, Bulgaria, Georgia, Italy and Tanzania.  Awarded Indonesia’s Leading Global Hotel Chain for six consecutive years, Swiss-Belhotel International is one of the world’s fastest-growing international hotel and hospitality management groups. The Group provides comprehensive and highly professional development and management services in all aspects of hotel, resort and serviced residences. Offices are located in Hong Kong, New Zealand, Australia, China, Europe, Indonesia, United Arab Emirates, and Vietnam. www.swiss-belhotel.com *Numbers may fluctuate

KING’S COMFORT SURPRISES THE HOTEL SHOW VISITORS WITH NEW RANGE

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King’s Comfort at its core is a family based locally grown business. The dream was birthed in October 2014 by local visionary Andries Taljaard who hails from Odendaalsrus. And saw its factory doors open in Botshabelo. It quickly grew to a factory in Bloemfontein and Johannesburg with plans of opening a manufacturing plant in Ghana in the near future. Local businessman Emmanuel Archontakis joined the dream in June 2016 and has been privileged to see the growth and expansion of the brand. The Company believes in supporting local and know that local business has so much to offer. With a humble beginning but with Big Dreams, the company quickly developed a national footprint. With more than 15 King’s Comfort branded stores and over 50 wholesalers country wide, good quality, affordable bedding is now within reach. In the Matjhabeng area alone it has two retail outlets in Welkom, two outlets in surrounding townships and two wholesalers. The company offers a range of bedding that meets everyone’s needs. It currently have hit the sweet spot with its Supreme range. It’s affordable quality with a guarantee to back it. So clients can buy a bed that is under R4000 that has everything and more of a R7000 bed. That’s why they have given it 5 stars. It beats the competitors hands down. Stronger base, better spring coils, double the Comfort layers, longer warranty and a ridiculously cheaper price. Not too mention a 100 night Comfort exchange. Kings Comfort has always dreamt of supplying beds internationally. And has seen doors open in the last while which have been amazing. All credit to their award winning Zuéno bed which won them the Manufacturer of the year award. At the Hotel Show in Dubai , it recorded maximum number of visitors. Contact KING’S COMFORT : Emmanuel Archontakis National Sales Director +27 72 620 4199

Beat the Heat with ‘Fridayland Pool Party’ at Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai

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Get ready for plenty of poolside fun with your family and friends at the Fridayland Pool Party at Oasis Pool Bar, Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai. Spend minimum AED 25 on beverages and get free entry and pool access from 4pm to 10pm on Friday 28th September 2018. Enjoy the party with live DJ and band performances pumping out some funky beats. Take a dip, relax with a drink or dance the evening away. Tempting food and beverage stalls, water slides for kids, floaters, rain showers, beautiful party decorations and a lot more awaits you. Mr. Simon Moore, General Manager of Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai, said, “It is the perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors and to spend the weekend. Oasis Pool & Bar is the ideal spot to chill out and we have got a superb selection of food and drinks.” Outside food and drinks are not allowed. Other terms and conditions apply. About Oasis Pool & Bar Oasis Pool & Bar has a modern relaxed oasis look and feel with a superb outdoor swimming pool. The place can be used for pool-side dining and cocktails during the day while at night, it is a relaxed chill-out lounge next to the pool serving food & drinks. The pool and garden area can also accommodate up to 400 guests in any type of event with shisha service. #OasisPoolBar For hotel marketing contact: Sheryl Aquiatan Assistant Marketing Manager Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai Mob: 00971 56 506 0983 Tel: 00971 4 702 8888 sheryl.aquiatan@millenniumhotels.com  For media contact: Hina Bakht Managing Director EVOPS Marketing & PR Mob: 00971 50 6975146 Tel: 00971 4 566 7355 Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com www.evops-pr.com Millennium Hotels and Resorts, Middle East and Africa Millennium Hotels and Resorts is a dynamic, global hotel company, which owns, asset manages and operates over 130 hotels worldwide. With almost 40,000 rooms and a portfolio of brands; including Biltmore, Grand Millennium, Millennium, Millennium Place, M Hotel, Copthorne, Kingsgate, Millennium Executive Apartments and Studio M, that serve different market segments, representing quality and value in every class. Currently operating 35 hotels in the Middle East and Africa, the Group has an extensive expansion strategy in place, with 40 hotels in the pipeline. Each property in the region is unique, catering to the varying tastes and needs of the international business and leisure traveller but with a consistent promise to provide a first class service and a rewarding experience for guests. Millennium Hotels and Resorts is committed to differentiating itself by embracing the true spirit of diverse traditions, with a sincere respect to historical heritage and local culture. With the motto “More than Meets the Eye”, Millennium & Copthorne is committed to a customer-centric philosophy and complete guest satisfaction. For more information, please visit www.millenniumhotels.com  

Central Hotels Addresses Market Challenges with Strategic Solutions

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While many in the hospitality industry are nervous about the increasing inventory of hotels in Dubai and the impact it continues to have on room rates, Ammar Kanaan, Group General Manager of Central Hotels, remains optimistic. So, despite the challenges of mounting competition, how does Central Hotels plan to boost profitability having just added two new spectacular 5-star hotels to the portfolio namely the Canal Central Business Bay and Royal Central The Palm? Ammar stressed, “It is no doubt a challenging period for hotels where the market is facing multiple issues. Rising cost of operations and increasing pressure on pricing due to oversupply of rooms is adversely affecting profitability of hotels. However, Dubai continues to make great strides in growth and diversification of tourism. On our part as operators it is vital that we challenge ourselves as an industry to respond to the market conditions with strategic and innovative solutions. This will not only allow us to reduce our operating costs but will stimulate our business for long-term sustainability.” According to Ammar, “To overcome challenges hotels need to take the right measures. At Central Hotels we have decided to outsource functions such as engineering, IT, house-keeping, security and F&B with highly reputed and reliable partners.  This has resulted in a positive impact on our business as payroll is the largest cost center for any hotel operation. Moreover, in addition to reducing costs outsourcing also allows us to elevate quality of service for our guests with specialized companies giving us a competitive edge.” Follow Us on @RoyalCentralAE @CanalCentralAE @FirstCentralAE #RoyalCentalAE #CanalCentalAE #FirstCentalAE #CentralHotels #StayFresh  About Central Hotels Central Hotels has very quickly established itself as a reputed hotel management group in the UAE with its flagship property First Central Hotel Suites located in Barsha Heights (TECOM) near Sheikh Zayed Road.  Building up on this amazing success, the brand is now poised to expand its footprint targeting the UAE and Turkey as the primary markets for growth in addition to other lucrative destinations within the Middle East. The group has recently added to its portfolio spectacular new 5-star hotels such as Canal Central Business Bay and Royal Central The Palm followed Central House Citywalk focused on millennials, Novotel The Palm, Diamond Central – Business Bay and Island Central in Dubai. Valley Central Bursa and Valley Central Trabzon will both be located in Turkey. For more information visit www.central-hotels.com About Royal Central Hotel The Palm The stunning Royal Central Hotel The Palm is a place where fantasy lives up to reality. The 5-star hotel features 207 elegantly-appointed rooms and suites, each beautifully designed to intuitively meet the needs of discerning travelers. Set in the iconic Palm Jumeirah, Royal Central Hotel offers an array of recreational activities from water sports to an outdoor infinity pool, state-of-the-art gym and health spa, along with exciting dining options. Guests have access to one of the best private beaches in the city while enjoying unhindered views of the world-famous architectural landmarks such as Atlantis The Palm and Burj Al Arab as they unwind and relax in a beautiful setting. It is also the best spot to watch the city’s spectacular fireworks. Book your stay at Royal Central Hotel via +971 4 873 9300. About Canal Central Hotel Business Bay If you are looking for the magical allure of the iconic Burj Khalifa then Canal Central Hotel Business Bay is the place to be. It is only a few minutes away from The Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountains. Equipped with the finest amenities, each of Canal Central’s 280 spacious rooms and suites offer spectacular views of the Dubai Canal or Burj Khalifa. Completing the experience are a hand-picked selection of dining outlets, flexible meeting spaces, state-of-the-art gymnasium and spa, a stunning infinity swimming pool and salon. Book your stay Canal Central Hotel via +971 4 873 2100. First Central Hotel Suites Equally well-located is First Central Hotel Suites within easy reach of the emirate’s key leisure hubs. In close proximity to the hotel are Dubai Internet City Metro Station, Dubai Media City, Dubai Marina, Montgomerie, Emirates Golf Club, and Mall of the Emirates. The deluxe hotel features 524 spacious and modern apartments equipped with top-notch facilities combined with award-winning hospitality. Book your stay at First Central Hotel Suites via +971 4 454 4900. For Media Contact: Hina Bakht Managing Director EVOPS Marketing & PR M: +971 50 6975146 | T: +971 4 566 7355 Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com www.evops-pr.com

HFTP and Naseba Announce HITEC Dubai 2018 Advisory Council

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HITEC Dubai 2018 will feature 30+ speakers, 600+ hospitality stakeholders and 60+ solution and service providers DUBAI: Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP®) and Naseba are bringing back HITEC® Dubai this year from December 5-6 at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, UAE. A regional extension to the world’s largest hospitality technology conference brand, HITEC Dubai 2018 will feature 30+ speakers, 600+ hospitality stakeholders and 60+ solution and service providers. The show will give Middle East buyers – currently worth over USD 75 billion – access to global top solution providers in hospitality market through a top-notch education program planned by the expert HITEC Dubai 2018 Advisory Council, as well as an exhibition showcasing the latest in hospitality technology, and a summit with one-to-one business meetings. To plan HITEC DUBAI’s educational program, an advisory council of experts with years of experience has been formed. The council’s role is to discuss and design an agenda that is most relevant to the Middle East’s challenges, needs and upcoming hospitality technology trends. The 2018 HITEC Dubai Advisory Council includes:
  • Laurent Voivenel, SVP of Operations and Development for Middle East, Africa & India, Swiss Belhotel International
  • Neil Menezes, VP of IT, Dubai Holding
  • Dr. Sanjay Nadkarni, Director Research and Innovations, Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management
  • Ferghal Purcell, COO, Hospitality Management Holding (HMH)
  • Ajay Rathi, Group Senior IT Director, Meraas Holding
  • Reda bin Abdoun, IT Director, Dur Hospitality
  • Naveen Bharadwaj, Production Director, Naseba
  • Atul Gupta, Regional Director of IT, Wyndham Hotels and Resorts
  • Samir Hamadeh, General Manager, Alpha Destination Management
  • Mohamed Amirul Islam, President, HFTP Dubai Chapter
  • Mahmoud Kamal, Group CIO, Al Habtoor Hospitality
  • Nicholas Watson, Chief Digital Officer, Naseba
  • Frank Wolfe, CAE, CEO, Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP)
HITEC Dubai’s Advisory Council Chairperson Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President, Operations and Development for the Middle East, Africa and India for Swiss-Belhotel International, said, “HITEC, co-produced by HFTP and Naseba, is the world’s largest hospitality technology show for hotels and we are delighted to participate in it. We operate in smart cities such as Dubai, hence our hotels need to be smart too. HITEC Dubai offers the perfect platform to know about the latest developments in hospitality technology based on the rapid innovations in the field and the specific needs of the Middle East region, especially Dubai, in order to keep up with the expectations of international travellers.” In addition, HFTP has several other HITEC events coming up in 2019. HITEC Europe is April 9-11, 2019 at Palau de Congressos in Palma, Mallorca, Spain. HITEC Minneapolis is June 17-20, 2019 at the Minneapolis Convention Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota USA. For more information about HFTP’s international events, visit www.hftp.org and www.hitec.org or contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org. About HITEC Dubai Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC®) is the world’s largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP®), producers of HITEC, will partner with Naseba, a business facilitation company, to bring the brand to Dubai. Making the event accessible to buyers from the lucrative Middle Eastern market, currently worth over USD 75 bn. The show will offer an education program and exhibits. In addition, HITEC Dubai will feature a summit with one-to-one business meetings that have become the hallmark of Naseba’s platforms. Hoteliers attending the summit portion of HITEC Dubai will be pre-qualified to confirm their purchasing authority, budgets, timelines and solutions of interest. hitec.naseba.com About HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP®), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry’s pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world’s largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world’s only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com®. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org. Follow HFTP on social media Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedInTwitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP’s industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP NewsHITEC BytesHFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance BytesHFTP GDPR Bytes and HFTP FB Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube. For media contact: Hina Bakht Managing Director EVOPS Marketing & PR Mob: 00971 50 6975146 Tel: 00971 4 566 7355 Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com www.evops-pr.com  

First Central Hotel Suites in Dubai Records Significant Increase in Direct Bookings with New Digital Strategy

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Just a few months after revamping and optimizing its website firstcentraldubai.com has seen a whopping 790% increase in direct bookings compared to figures during the same period last year. The hotel saw bookings surge from both regional and international travellers following an investment in its digital optimization and online marketing. Wael El Behi, General Manager of First Central Hotel Suites, said, “We are very happy with the performance of firstcentraldubai.com and are glad that our digital strategy is paying off. I would like to take this opportunity to commend our Cluster Marketing Manager Angelo De Guzman for successfully spearheading our digital strategy. The brand website is an important e-commerce tool and its optimization is more significant than ever in an increasingly social, online world. Today, for most travellers, the online journey starts on mobiles with social media platforms acting as a gateway to websites. Our enhanced website is well integrated with social media and acts as a promotional partner with various social channels to maximize the hotel’s direct reach.” The firstcentraldubai.com provides a compelling user experience and has been designed to make the booking process easier and simpler for users as well as to help find quickly the information they are looking for. Wael stressed, “Our website is highly interactive with implementation of many interesting features that have been driving more traffic to the site. Above all it allows visitors to experience our brand and hotel in the most optimum setting that in turn ensures the ideal outcome for our business. Moving forward, our goal is to ensure that more and more guests book their stay directly with us and the best way to achieve it is to have the right booking tool with the best offers. Our website features an exciting choice of exclusive promotions for different segments offering excellent value for money. One of the keys to our success is that as part of the marketing strategy we are offering exclusive deals and packages only on our website for both leisure and business travellers this is helping us to increase traffic and conversion.” For hotel inquiries & reservations: Call: +971 4 454 4900 or email reservations.fc@central-hotels.com www.firstcentraldubai.com  Follow Us on @FirstCentralAE #FirstCentalAE #CentralHotels #StayFresh  About Central Hotels Central Hotels has very quickly established itself as a reputed hotel management group in the UAE with its flagship property First Central Hotel Suites located in Barsha Heights (TECOM) near Sheikh Zayed Road. Building up on this amazing success, the brand is now poised to expand its footprint targeting the UAE and Turkey as the primary markets for growth in addition to other lucrative destinations in the Middle East. The group has recently added to its portfolio spectacular new 5-star hotels such as Canal Central Business Bay and Royal Central The Palm followed by Central House Citywalk focused on millennials, Novotel The Palm, Diamond Central – Business Bay, and Island Central in Dubai, as well as Valley Central Bursa, and Valley Central Trabzon in Turkey. For more information visit www.central-hotels.com For Media Contact: Hina Bakht Managing Director EVOPS Marketing & PR M: +971 50 6975146 | T: +971 4 566 7355 Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com www.evops-pr.com  

Celebrate Oktoberfest at Biggles in Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai

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It will soon be celebration time at the Biggles Pub in the Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai as the Oktoberfest party kicks off at the outlet. The annual fiesta will run at Biggles from 25th September to 4th October 2018 and will offer revellers the opportunity to enjoy traditional German brews along with a superb selection of specialties. Mr. Simon Moore, General Manager of Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai, said, “We are very excited to host the Oktoberfest. Guests can look forward to a whole lot of fun with superb German fare.” Biggles has been Dubai’s favourite British pub for over 20 years, known for its excellent food and live entertainment. This award-winning British bar decorated in WWII aviation-themed memorabilia is not only an ideal venue for night entertainment but also a sports pub with 17 screens for ultimate viewing of your favourite sport. For hotel marketing contact: Sheryl Aquiatan Assistant Marketing Manager Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai Mob: 00971 56 506 0983 Tel: 00971 4 702 8888 sheryl.aquiatan@millenniumhotels.com For media contact: Hina Bakht Managing Director EVOPS Marketing & PR Mob: 00971 50 6975146 Tel: 00971 4 566 7355 Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com www.evops-pr.com Millennium Hotels and Resorts, Middle East and Africa Millennium Hotels and Resorts is a dynamic, global hotel company, which owns, asset manages and operates over 130 hotels worldwide. With almost 40,000 rooms and a portfolio of brands; including Biltmore, Grand Millennium, Millennium, Millennium Place, M Hotel, Copthorne, Kingsgate, Millennium Executive Apartments and Studio M, that serve different market segments, representing quality and value in every class. Currently operating 35 hotels in the Middle East and Africa, the Group has an extensive expansion strategy in place, with 40 hotels in the pipeline. Each property in the region is unique, catering to the varying tastes and needs of the international business and leisure traveller but with a consistent promise to provide a first class service and a rewarding experience for guests. Millennium Hotels and Resorts is committed to differentiating itself by embracing the true spirit of diverse traditions, with a sincere respect to historical heritage and local culture. With the motto “More than Meets the Eye”, Millennium & Copthorne is committed to a customer-centric philosophy and complete guest satisfaction. For more information, please visit www.millenniumhotels.com

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The Millennium Airport Hotel team won the 4th spot in the sought-after Dulsco Cup 2018 Inter Hotel Cricket Tournament held last 16th July 2018. Competing against 18 top hotel cricket teams in Dubai, the players put up a terrific game to grab the title. The matches saw some amazing twists with the Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai team scoring well followed by excellent bowling. Mr. Simon Moore, General Manager of Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai, said, “We are very proud of our cricket team that has been playing very consistently and is in good form. It is wonderful to watch the players grow. Their hard work and great team spirit secured them a place in the final four.” The participants from the Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai included:
  • Sukhjinder Singh – Commis Chef
  • Mahammed Irshad Sulaiman – Kitchen Steward
  • Mohomed Anzil Noordeen – Chef De Partie
  • Ali Bin Ayub – Telephone Operator
  • Nishanthan Mylwaganam Varatharajan – Mason
  • Manish Kumar Bhaskar – Guest Service Agent
  • Ganesh Kumar Balam – Laundry Attendant
  • Muhammad Farooq Aziz – Laundry Attendant
  • Rajendra Singh Danga – Data Entry Operator
  • Mohamed Rifnas Musammil – Dry Cleaner
  • Nabeel Najam – Bell Luggage Attendant
For hotel marketing contact: Sheryl Aquiatan Assistant Marketing Manager Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai Mob: 00971 56 506 0983 Tel: 00971 4 702 8888 sheryl.aquiatan@millenniumhotels.com  For media contact: Hina Bakht Managing Director EVOPS Marketing & PR Mob: 00971 50 6975146 Tel: 00971 4 566 7355 Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com www.evops-pr.com Millennium Hotels and Resorts, Middle East and Africa Millennium Hotels and Resorts is a dynamic, global hotel company, which owns, asset manages and operates over 130 hotels worldwide. With almost 40,000 rooms and a portfolio of brands; including Biltmore, Grand Millennium, Millennium, Millennium Place, M Hotel, Copthorne, Kingsgate, Millennium Executive Apartments and Studio M, that serve different market segments, representing quality and value in every class. Currently operating 35 hotels in the Middle East and Africa, the Group has an extensive expansion strategy in place, with 40 hotels in the pipeline. Each property in the region is unique, catering to the varying tastes and needs of the international business and leisure traveller but with a consistent promise to provide a first class service and a rewarding experience for guests. Millennium Hotels and Resorts is committed to differentiating itself by embracing the true spirit of diverse traditions, with a sincere respect to historical heritage and local culture. With the motto “More than Meets the Eye”, Millennium & Copthorne is committed to a customer-centric philosophy and complete guest satisfaction. For more information, please visit www.millenniumhotels.com